The Surf Window

Refugio State Beach

Santa Barbara, USA

Point breakIntermediate

Right point break wrapping along the rocky headland at this beautiful state beach. Clean walls on the right swell with a kelp-lined takeoff zone. Quieter than the in-town breaks and worth the drive up the Gaviota Coast.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size-NW 4-8ft

Wind

N

Offshore

Tide

Mid-High

LowMidHigh

Season

October-March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right point

Bottom

Rock and sand

Shape

Long tapered walls with workable sections

Length

75-200m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate to advanced
  • •Why: Rocky bottom, longer rides need positioning

Hazards

  • •Rocks at the point
  • •Kelp beds
  • •Can hold size

Local Tips

  • •State park day use fee required
  • •Camp and surf for the full experience
  • •Best on moderate NW swells
  • •Glass-off sessions at dusk are magic

Location

Map showing the location of Refugio State Beach in Santa Barbara, USA

34.4607, -120.0733